Method of producing maps and other objects configured for presentation of spatially-related layers of data

ABSTRACT

A method of fabricating maps and other objects presenting multiple sets of spatially related information. Spatial alignment data, such as geographical boundaries is selected. First and second images are created by aligning or mapping first and second sets of information to the spatial alignment data. A lens sheet or lenticular material is fabricated, and based on the lens sheet configuration, the first and second images are combined to create an interlaced image including alternating strips from the first and second images. The interlaced image is printed on a substrate or the reverse side of the lens sheet, and the substrate is bonded to the lens sheet such that the interlaced image is sandwiched between the lens sheet and substrate. The first image is visible when the map or object is in a first position and the second image when the map or object is rotated to a second position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/317,957 filed on Dec. 12, 2002, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/341,136 filed on Dec. 13, 2001, U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/362,968 filed on Mar. 8, 2002, and U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/374,564 filed on Apr. 22, 2002, all fourof which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates, in general, to structures usinglenticular lens materials or sheets to produce images, and, moreparticularly, to maps and other information-presenting objects thatinclude printed images having interlaced strips from multiple imagesthat have been created based on discrete sets of data that has beenaligned or mapped to a shared, single set of spatial data, such ascoordinates defining a geographic boundary or a spatial boundary of anatural or manmade structure.

2. Relevant Background

The production and sale of printed maps is a large worldwide industrywith the sale of consumer maps exceeding $400 million and other mapsexceeding $2.5 billion (United States dollars). Maps are produced fornumerous niche markets to provide select information on a single printedmap with the look and feel of each map typically being different. Forexample, a tourist visiting a city would most likely purchase a streetmap to be able to drive in the city or otherwise navigate the unfamiliarcity. The tourist would further use a tourist-oriented map providinglocations of famous landmarks and places of interest. Often, this secondmap is provided in a different scale and is less accurate than thestreet map and may only show selected streets to try to minimize theinformation complexity of the map. The tourist further may need to use apublic transportation map, such as a subway map, a bus map, and/or atrain map. These transportation maps again provide only selectgeographic reference points, which may or may not be provided on thestreet map or landmark map, and may differ in scale and orientation fromthe other two maps. As a result, the tourist needs to carry three ormore maps to navigate the city, and often will have difficultytranslating information from one map to another, let alone finding thespace to spread all of their maps out for viewing.

The problem of how best to present multiple sets of geographicallyrelated or otherwise spatially related information is not limited to mapdesign and publishing. Architects and civil engineers typically usemultiple drawings of a building or structure each showing differenttypes of information, but this again requires a user to spread out oropen the multiple drawings, which are generally quite large, at the sametime to try to cross-reference information on the various drawings. Suchdrawings or portions of these drawings can include safety informationsuch as evacuation routes, shelter locations, and the like to be used bybuilding occupants. In the medical field, different systems of the humanbody are generally shown in different drawings making it difficult for auser to quickly identify the spatial relationships of the varioussystems. Overlays of partially transparent material have been used withsome success in the medical field and other fields, but these overlaysystems have not been fully adapted in part because a user is forced toflip back and forth between the pages to see the spatial relationships.The complexity of this information has led to the development ofrelatively sophisticated and expensive devices utilizing electronic anddigitally-enabled methods, such as geographic information systems (GIS)for viewing maps and similar information and digitized anatomicalatlases for organisms.

Hence, there remains a need for a method of producing maps and otherinformational devices that allows multiple sets of spatially-relatedinformation to be presented to a viewer or user while addressing theneed to control information overload or high complexity. Preferably,such a method would be relatively inexpensive to implement, i.e.,utilize existing technologies in new ways where practical, such thatcost of the produced maps and other objects would be similar tocurrently marketed products. Further, it is desirable that the producedmaps and objects have form factors that are similar to existing productsto enhance user adoption of the new products.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the above problems by providing a methodof fabricating maps and other objects that are useful for presentingmultiple sets of information in a spatially-related manner. The methodincludes selecting a set of spatial alignment data, such as geographicalboundaries, spatial boundaries for a living organism, or a structuralboundary of a manmade structure. A first image is created by aligning ormapping a first set or layer of information to the spatial alignmentdata, and then a second image is created by aligning or mapping a secondset or layer of information to the same spatial alignment data. A lenssheet is provided or fabricated with desired lens or lenticulefrequency, viewing distances, and viewing angles. Then, based on thelens sheet configuration the first and second images are combined tocreate an interlaced image including alternating strips from the firstand second images. The interlaced image is then printed (typically on asubstrate or directly on the reverse side of the lens sheet) and asubstrate is bonded to the lens sheet such that the interlaced image issandwiched between the lens sheet and the substrate. In some preferredembodiments, three or more images are provided by following similarsteps to allow viewing of three or more images simply by rotating themap or object.

The interlaced strips are registered or aligned with the lenses of thelens sheet and the first image is visible when the map or object is in afirst position (e.g., when rotated through a defined range of angles)and the second image is visible when the map or object is rotated to asecond position (e.g., when rotated beyond the defined range of anglesfor the first image or through a transition or second viewing angle). Insome embodiments, the combined image is formed such that at least aportion of the first image is visible concurrently with the secondimage, such as at a transition viewing angle or range of angles. Inother words, the method of fabricating the map or object may becompleted to support intentional ghosting or bleeding of one image intoanother to allow information from two sets of spatially-related data tobe viewed at the same time, such as street information being visible orpartially visible while viewing neighborhood, landmark, business,shopping, or other information where street information may be useful orsuch as a time series of spatially-related data including amanufacturing process within a specific framework or safety informationsuch as an evacuation route being shown serially over a constantalignment framework.

More generally, presented herein is a new system of viewingmulti-layered data representations that resolve the complicated issuesof ‘information overload’ commonly present in data visualization,print-based products. The invention utilizes lenticular technology. In alenticular map of the invention, different types of information arestored on different layers. When the angle of viewing is changed (byrotating the map in the hand), different layers will become visible,e.g., a street grid, subway map, evacuation route and/or others. Thepresent invention allows users to reference sets of data without havingto refer to different physical maps of different scale and iconographicsystems.

The invention features a portable map, printed by at least onelenticular printing method, where a different type of information, ispresented on each layer. The information can be of interest to tourists,naturalists, city planners, or others. Information of interests totourists and travelers can include streets, public transportation,traffic flow, parking availability, neighborhoods, restaurants, culturalattractions, parks, architectural landmarks, hotels or shops. Theinformation can be of a recreational type, and can include roads,topographic lines, recreational trails, natural features, waterfeatures, wildlife information, hazards and emergency services. Theinformation can be of a type of interest to city planners and workers,and can include water mains, electrical utilities, telephone utilities,cable television utilities, fiber optic utilities, sewer lines, accesstunnels, police precincts and zoning regulations. The information can beof a type of interest to scientists and students and can include organicsystems of organisms, e.g., skeletal system, endocrine system andnervous system. The information can be of a type of interest toarchitects, engineers, designers and the construction industry and caninclude skeletal building composition, insulation, heating, ventilationand air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, hydraulics, electrical systemsand fuel systems. The information can be of a type of interest to safetyand security professionals, and can include emergency evacuation routesand fire exits for airplanes, trains, submarines, transportation centers(airports, bus stations, train stations), convention centers, officebuildings and other areas where the public would be required to move inan orderly and timely manner to escape possible injury.

The printing process can be, e.g., serigraphy, lithography, light valvetechnology (LVT), flexography, inkjet, web press, traditionalphotographic or digital photographic, etc. The map can be folded afterprinting, and packaged, if desired. The invention also features aportable information sheeting which includes: (a) a printed layer on asheeting having information printed in a plurality of orientations; and(b) a lenticular structure on said sheeting, where only a first portionof the information can be viewed by a viewer from a first angle, andonly a second portion of the information which is different than thefirst portion can be viewed by the viewer from a second angle.

In an additional aspect, the invention features a portable informationsheeting including a lenticular structure having a first lensorientation and a second lens orientation, where the first lensorientation includes a first set of information formed on it, and thesecond lens orientation includes a second set of information formed onit, and where the first set of information can be viewed at a firstangle by a viewer but not the second set of information at the firstangle, and the second set of information can be viewed at a second anglewhich is different from the first angle while the first set ofinformation cannot be viewed by the viewer from the second angle. Such asheeting can also include additional layers, e.g., a third layer ofinformation viewable from a third angle but not the first and secondangles, and where the first and second layers of information cannot beviewed at the third angle. Additional layers of information (e.g.,fourth layer, fifth layer, etc.), viewed at different discrete angles(e.g., fourth angle, fifth angle, etc), can also be added.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of map fabricated according to the inventionillustrating the alignment of multiple layers of information to sharedspatial alignment data prior to the application of a lens sheet on aprinted image of interlaced image;

FIG. 2 is a simplified sectional view of a single lens or lenticuleshowing the concepts of viewing angles, viewing distances, and fields ofvision that are utilized in the maps and other objects of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a simplified side view of a user rotating a map or objectfabricated according to the invention (such as the map of FIG. 1) toview the multiple layers of information contained in the map or object;

FIGS. 4-6 are plan views of the map views visible in FIG. 3 by the userat the three viewing angles (or ranges of viewing angles);

FIG. 7 is a side view similar to FIG. 3 showing another embodiment ofthe invention in which ghosting is intentionally provided such that atintermediate or transition viewing angles (or, more accurately, rangesof viewing angles) information from two information layers or data setsis concurrently visible to the user;

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the transitional or ghosted images that arevisible by the user of FIG. 7 when the map or object is rotated throughthe transition angles (or range of angles);

FIG. 10 is a flow chart providing exemplary steps of a process formanufacturing maps and other objects according to the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a map or other object fabricated with sheetsdivided by folds such that adjacent lens sheets can be folded oraccordioned for ease of use (similar to standard paper maps);

FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the map or other object of FIG. 11; and

FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a security card or other informationalcard that is fabricated by sandwiching two printed multiple layer imagesbetween two lens sheets to provide viewing on a front and back surfaceof the card.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The invention is directed generally to a method of making objects (suchas maps) that are capable of presenting multiple layers of informationor multiple sets of data. The invention is also directed to the objectsfabricated according to the described method. Significantly, theinformation on each layer or each set of data is linked or tied togetherspatially. This is achieved according to the invention by firstselecting a spatial reference system or frame (i.e., a set of sharedspatial alignment data) and then creating a separate image or artworkrepresentation of each set of data with reference to the shared spatialalignment data. A lens sheet or sheet of lenticular material is formedand a substrate is selected. The images representing the spatial dataare used to form an interlaced image including alternating strips fromthe images, with the strips being selected to have a width matching theconfiguration of the lens sheet such that one of the images is visibleat a time through the lenses of the sheet (or multiple images arevisible in embodiments that utilize ghosting to allow viewing ofinformation from two layers at a time).

The interlaced image is printed on the substrate (or on the lens sheet)and the substrate is bonded to the lens sheet with the lenses of thesheet being carefully aligned or matched with the strips of theinterlaced image. The image may take a large variety of forms includinggraphic designs, photographs (e.g., aerial, time series, process, andother photographs), frames of video footage, and other numerous forms.To explain these ideas fully, the following description begins with adiscussion of one object that can be successfully manufactured accordingto the invention, i.e., a map, and then proceeds to a discussion ofexemplary steps in making objects capable of presenting multiple sets ofspatially-related information.

FIG. 1 illustrates in exploded view a map 100 fabricated according tothe present invention. A map 100 is selected for discussion as onepreferred embodiment of the invention although numerous other objectscan be fabricated according to the invention such as medical referencematerials, structural and engineering figures, and the like and theseother objects are considered part of the breadth of this invention aslong as each layer or set of information is spatially related asdescribed herein. According to an important aspect of the invention, themap 100 is formed based on a set of spatial alignment data 110 thatprovides a reference system or framework for presenting data in the map100. In other words, each set of information or layers of data isspatially-linked or related to the spatial alignment data 110.

The spatial alignment data 110 can include nearly any information usefulfor defining a spatial reference framework such as coordinate pointsused in mapping, e.g., points of latitude and longitude, informationuseful for defining scale, shape, and the like and the particular dataused is not considered limiting to the invention. Further, the spatialalignment data 110 (and the alignment of content in data sets 120, 130,140) may be provided using geo-coded data and/or geographic informationsystems (GIS) technology and include GIS data. As another example, asshown, the framework 112 provided by the spatial alignment data 110includes information useful for defining the outer boundaries of ageographical structure, i.e., an island as well as the scale of theframework 112, but the framework 112 could just as easily defined theboundaries of a country, a state, a city, or a portion thereof.Alternatively, the framework 112 could have been a building, a structuresuch as an airplane, a ship, an automobile, and the like, or a livingorganism such as a human body, an animal, a plant, or a portion thereof.

The map 100 further includes multiple layers of information or sets ofdata that are related to and referenced spatially to the spatialalignment data 110. These sets of information are shown by first layerdata set 120, second layer data set 130, and third layer data set 140.The invention requires multiple data sets but the number can varysignificantly from 2 to 12 or more depending on the configuration of thelens sheet (i.e., how many image strips can successfully and practicallybe supported by the lenticular material) with three layers or data setsbeing one preferred and useful arrangement. As shown, each data setincludes a spatial framework 124, 136, 148 that is a copy of theframework 112 from the shared spatial alignment data 110. In thismanner, the data in each layer data set 120, 130, 140 is directlyreferenced to the same, shared alignment data 110 and the information ofeach layer data set 120, 130, 140 is spatially aligned to the samereference points or coordinates, and importantly, to the data in theother data sets 120, 130, 140.

Spatial alignment of the information in each layer data set 120, 130,140 is useful for allowing spatial relationships between information ineach set 120, 130, 140 to be quickly identifiable by a user of the map100. In prior lenticular devices, the illusion of motion or threedimensions was provided by utilizing a series of unique images thatincluded similar content or information rather than different sets ofinformation with the similar content being shown in a different spatialorientation to obtain the desired effect, e.g., movement, rather thanshowing unique information relative to a static spatial reference system(i.e., the spatial alignment data 110). The spatial alignment data 110may be a visible framework 112 that is included in each added layer 120,130, 140 with frameworks 124, 136, 148 but this is not a requirement andthe spatial alignment data 110 may be simply information that is used toalign the information in each layer data set 120, 130, 140 (such as aset of map coordinates or structural coordinates that do not directlyrelate to a physical structure or boundary as the boundaries of theshown island of framework 112).

The information or data in the sets 120, 130, 140 is typically presentedgraphically and/or with text and may include a wide variety of content.For example, in a medical reference application, the framework 112 maybe the human body or a portion of a human body and the content in layer120 may be the circulatory system, the content in layer 130 may be theskeletal system, and the content in layer 140 may be the nervous system.In the mapping embodiment shown for map 100, the content of the data insets 120, 130, 140 may be selected from streets, neighborhoods,geographic and tourist landmarks, transportation routes (such as train,bus, and/or subway routes), and many more. Specific points of interestmay be included in a layer as content such as lodging, restaurants,cultural attractions, parks, architectural landmarks, shopping, gasstations, universities, hospitals, and more. In some cases, one or morelayers may include advertising content such as indicating the locationof specific businesses that have paid to be included in the content ofone or more layers. For example, a particular restaurant or hotel chainmay be included in one or more of the data sets 120, 130, 140 toencourage map users to visit that business.

A map 100 can be designed with content to meet specific needs or forspecific users or markets. For example, such maps may be useful forlocal governments to develop centrally-coordinated base maps to assistcity workers with locations for specialized tasks, e.g., showingboundaries of various types (e.g., property, town, county, parish,state, etc.), water mains, electrical/telephone cables, soilcomposition, water tables, subways, tunnels, rights-of-way, policeprecincts, voting precincts, and the like, with each being shown onseparate layers 120, 130, 140 or being combined in a useful manner in asingle data set 120, 130, 140. The map 100 can also use spatialalignment data 110 from a rural or natural area and can containinformation in the sets 120, 130, 140 of interest to those accessingsuch areas, e.g., topographic lines, different types of recreationaltrails, natural features, water features, wildlife information, hazards,emergency services, and the like.

The map 100 can be planned so as to serve themes or particularinterests. While a map of “The City for Art Lovers” can containinformation on museums, galleries, points of architectural interest, andthe like in the data sets 120, 130, 140. A map of “The City for NatureLovers” can contain information on parks, recreational trails, zoos,botanical gardens, and the like. Some information, e.g., streetinformation, can be in common and appear in more than one such mapdirectly by inclusion in more than one data set 120, 130, 140 or throughintentional ghosting of information “shared” between layers 120, 130,140 (as is explained below with reference to FIGS. 7-9. A map 100 of“The City in a Day” can contain important points of interest that atraveler might wish to see if given only one day in the locale.Likewise, a map of “The City in a Week” can contain the same points ofinterest, plus additional attractions that a traveler could reasonablysee if spending a week in a given locale.

The map 100 can also be planned so as to provide information in atemporal context as it relates to technical processes and devices, e.g.,manufacturing process of a silicon wafer or the assembly of astandardized food product, in which the content of steps of a processmake up the content of the data sets 120, 130, 140 and the completedproduct outline or spatial framework provides the information for thespatial alignment data 110 (such as the outline of a completed foodproduct shown as completed or shown as completed in exploded view orsuch as aerial views showing changes in geology and/or vegetation overtime including plant blights and the like). In these embodiments, the“map” 100 can be used to provide in a serial fashion a set ofinformation that is temporally related and spatially related. This canbe thought of as a time series of spatially-related data which generallycan include relatively any information in each layer data set 120, 130,140 that is related spatially to the spatial alignment data 110 andaligned with the framework 112 but that is also related in time to theadjacent layers.

As a specific example of this time series concept, the map 100 orobjects of the invention can be planned so as to support understandingof emergency exits and evacuation routes for certain places to supportthe needs of safety and security professionals. In these cases, the“map” 100 would utilize as the framework 112 the outer boundary or aninner structure of spatial reference systems including airplanes,submarines, trains, transportation centers (airports, bus stations,train stations), convention centers, office buildings and other areaswhere the public would be required to move in an orderly and timelymanner. Each layer 120, 130, 140 would present one data set ofinformation about the evacuation route relative to the emergency exitsand with the route being displayed as changing in time relative to theconsistent framework 112 to visually demonstrate the path(s) to be takento exit the structure.

In general, the invention can be used to create any type of map orrepresentation apparatus 100 where it is useful to make availablemultiple types of information that is spatially related, but wheresimultaneous display of all of such information types may result in“information overload” on the part of the user, and makes map viewingdifficult or confusing, or inefficient at locating the information. Thelayered features of the map 100 allow viewing of select sets 120, 130,140 of the entire set of information at a time and in a selectablefashion, i.e., by rotating the map 100 as is explained below.

The map 100 can also be planned so as to serve seasonal or otherspecific interests, e.g., “The City in Springtime”, “The City During theHolidays”, “The City During the Civil War”, “The City for Children”,“The Jewish Guide to the City”, and the like. The “map” 100 or objectfabricated according to the invention (not shown) can also be planned soas to support so-called “information graphics” which seek to explainthrough a combination of visual and narrative properties, e.g. “How theTitanic Sank,” “How Buildings Stand,” “What a Nuclear Submarine LooksLike,” “How the Human Body Works,” and the like. In these cases, thespatial alignment data 110 would typically define a structure or spatialobject in one of these devices or a coordinate system for aligningspatially-related data.

To allow each layer data set 120, 130, 140 to be viewed individually themap 110 utilizes lenticular technology and includes a lens sheet 170including numerous lenticules or elongate, parallel lenses, aninterlaced image 150 including printed, alternating strips 154 formedfrom the data sets 120, 130, 140 and a substrate 160. Typically, theinterlaced image 150 is printed on the substrate 160 that is then bondedto the prefabricated lens sheet 170 (e.g., a plastic material such aspolyester, vinyl, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), andthe like. The configuration of the image strips 154 is selectedcarefully to match the frequency or pitch of the lenses in the sheet170. Those skilled in the art will understand that lenticular technologyand printing has been in use for a long period of time and is relativelywell understood. Hence, the invention is not based on a specifictechnique of fabricating the lens sheet 170, printing or forming theinterlaced image 150, a particular substrate 160 material, or aparticular bonding technique. The following discussion of theparticulars of lenticular technology and printing methods that can beused to form these components of the map 100 is provided forillustrative purposes but not as a limitation of the invention.

In general, the map 100 includes a lens sheet 170 including atransparent upper layer which has narrow parallel semi-cylindricallenses (lenticules) on an outer surface and an image 150 on a substratelayer 160, which projects images through the lenticules. In someembodiments, the substrate 160 and lens sheet 170 are combined with theprinted image being placed directly on the back or planar side of thecombined sheet. The two layers provide an image to a user of the map100, and different portions of the image are visible, depending on theangle from which the sheet is viewed, i.e., different data sets 120,130, 140 are visible depending on the viewing angle. Maps and otherobjects made according to the invention enable viewing multi-layereddata representations that resolve the complicated issues of ‘informationoverload’ commonly present in map and other information products.

The invention utilizes lenticular technology, which was first conceivedin the 1880's and commercialized in the 1940's. Subsequent developmentshave increased viewing quality, printing techniques, visual effects andspecialized applications (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,252,621, which isincorporated in its entirety by reference herein). In a lenticular map100 of the invention, different types of information are stored ondifferent layers 120, 130, 140 interlaced in image 150. When the angleof viewing is changed (by rotating the map in the hand), differentlayers will become visible, e.g., a street grid, subway map, and/orothers. This effect is generally called a ‘flip’ or phase change. Othereffects may also be used and provided by the lens sheet 170 and image150 combination. While similarly based on the lenticular printingmethod, these effects may reveal a static three-dimensional image (i.e.,‘3D’), one image evolving into another (i.e., ‘morph’), and others. Thepresent invention allows users to reference sets of data 120, 130, 140without having to refer to different physical maps of different scaleand iconographic systems.

There are a number of different types of lenticular printing that can beused to form the image 150 and strips 154 on the substrate 160. In largeformat continuous tone digital imaging, a paper, plastic or othersubstrate 160 can be mounted on heavy gauge rigid lenticular sheets,i.e., lens sheet 170. The large format tends to be economical in runsfrom 1 to 200 pieces. There are many types of large format processes,some using RGB lasers, some using inkjet and some using a photographicprocess. Another type is silk screening or serigraph, which can be doneat varying line resolutions. Lithography is one preferred printingmethod for use in forming the map 100 because it is useful for hand-helddistances.

Printing is performed based on the frequency of the lens sheet 170 whichis often stated or given in lenticules or lenses per inch (LPI).Typically, the lens sheet 170 is configured with 10, 15, 20, 30, or 40LPI and the printing is performed to match this frequency, with higheramounts being difficult to laminate. In general, a resolution of about15 LPI is used for the flip effect desired in the map 100, i.e., thechange from viewing one data set 120, 130, 140 to another in contrast toa 40 LPI frequency that may be used for a three-dimensional display.

There are many print production methods that can be used to create alenticular image 150. These include, but are not limited to, offset(lithographic) printing, flexography, screen, digital, and traditionalphotographic processing. Each process has its own advantages anddisadvantages, and those of ordinary skill can determine the optimalprinting process for a given application. The table below shows somelens frequencies that can be used with or combined with different printproduction methods. Note, the LPI values provided represent a centralpoint in a range with the given print processes being well suited forLPI values above and below the given LPI value.

Print Process/LPI 10 15 20 30 40 50 60 75 85 100 140 200 Large FormatInkjet X X X X X X Offset X X X X X X Flexography X X X TraditionalPhotographic X X X X X X X X X X X X Screen X X X X X DigitalPhotographic X X X X X

Lens frequencies currently available for use with sheet 170 that aregenerally geared for the offset environment include, but are not limitedto, 60 LPI, 75 LPI, 79 LPI, 85 LPI, 90 LPI, 100 LPI, and 200 LPI. Onelimitation with offset printing is the gauge (thickness) of materialthat can actually fit through the printing press. This is usually nomore than 35 mm (thousandths) thickness, and the press generally cannottake in material thicker than this. The printing can be performeddirectly on the lens sheet 170 itself, or on paper or card stock, i.e.,the substrate 160, that is then mounted to the back of the lens sheet170.

Screen printing can accept a wide variety of lenses and lens frequenciesused in sheet 170, depending on a printer's capabilities and resolution.The resolution differs from screen printer to senigrapher. One shouldcheck that a printer has the capabilities to interlace in house so theycan correct the films for the exact pitch of the lens sheet 170, whichcan vary from run to run in the plastic extrusion world. For example, aprinter can receive a lens sheet 170 configured for 40 LPI and perform apitch test only to find that it is really 40.04. This can throw off thequality, but before a costly error is made, in-house image setting andinterlacing can proof this, and for this reason, it is typicallypreferable to fabricate the lens sheet 170 prior to producing theinterlaced image 150. One should get a pre-production approval off thepress whether printing is done by silk screen or serigraph such as byusing a proof or match print. The benefits of screen print/serigraph arethat they are fade resistant and environmentally stable in heat,humidity and freezing cold. Serigraph process lays down more pigmentbecause the theoretical ink volume is greater. One should comparedifferent printing products. For example, the serigraph is limited bysize with bigger sizes distorting, while hand applied digital typicallydoes not become distorted with increased size.

When choosing an offset process, printing volumes should be consideredas well. Offset printing is not ideal for short run production,especially lenticulars because the setup and calibration of the presscan take some time. In most cases, higher volumes are required and printruns of 5,000 pieces would be considered minimal. Normal print runs getinto the tens of thousands and can easily get into the millions ofprints. Silk screen/serigraph is generally considered a good choice forquantities of 250 to 5,000. Using a digital (inkjet or digitalphotographic) method usually requires that one print to a substrate 160and then manually laminate the image 150 on the substrate 160 behind thelenticular sheet. This process is excellent for short run lenticularproduction and produces good results. A limitation of digital printingis resolution and volume. Resolution for digital devices ranges from 200dpi to 1140 dpi. Whereas offset printing offers a much higherresolution, lower digital resolution can begin to limit one's choice oflenses for the sheet 170. The primary reason the choice is limited isthat as the LPI increases, one needs a higher resolution print method tobe able to image to that particular lens pattern. Also because digitalprinting uses a manual mounting method, high volumes are noteconomically feasible, which is why it is best for short print runs.Conversely, offset printing is not very economical at small volumes.Large format lenticular lenses can be purchased in very small volumes,while offset lenses are sold in much higher volume lots. Fortunately,there are now many lens choices on the market for the large formatdigital method that meet most needs. Lenticular lens sheet frequenciescurrently available on the market for the large format digitalenvironment include but are not limited to, 6 LPI, 10 LPI, 15 LPI, 20LPI, 30 LPI, 40 LPI, and 50 LPI.

In an alternative embodiment, the image 150 with interlaced image strips154 is provided with imaging technologies other than standard inkprinting and offset printing as discussed above. For example, anelectronic ink display that provides a desired resolution can be used toprovide the interlaced image strips 154 and image 150 as well asproviding the substrate 160, e.g., as part of the display element. Suchan electronic display may be desirable for increasing the number of datasets that can be displayed depending upon the obtained resolution of theelectronic ink display. Further, the use of an electronic ink display toprovide the image 150 would allow the content of the data sets 120, 130,140 and even the spatial alignment data 110 to be modified or replacedon demand or periodically. For example, a single map 100 can be used todisplay different spatial alignment data 110 with differing data sets120, 130, 140 to allow a traveler to quickly view different locations(such as on demand selection of a map of one portion of New York Cityand then selecting another portion of New York City or a portion of thestate of New York). A periodic updating of such data sets 120, 130, 140but not the alignment data 110 may be useful for periodically updatingtransportation information (as bus lines or subway lines change), toupdate landmarks, lodging, restaurants, and the like, or to otherwisemodify the content of the map 100 or of one or more layers of the map100. The specific electronic ink technology utilized for the image 150is not limiting to the invention and is, hence, not discussed in detail,but could be a display similar to that developed for handheld computingdevices such as PDAs and electronic books (e.g., see products beingdeveloped by E Ink Corporation, Philips Components, Lucent Technologies,Xerox Corporation, and/or other electronic ink technology developersand/or distributors).

The lenses in the sheet 170 are typically designed with characteristicsthat enhance certain capabilities. Lenticular effects can be broken downinto two primary categories, “flip” and 3D. Within each categoryadditional effects are available. Referring now to FIG. 2, an individuallens or lenticule 210 is shown with a portion of the image 214 (such asan image point of a strip 154) and the underlying substrate 218. Everylenticular lens 210 on sheet 170 has a certain viewing angle, θ. Thisviewing angle, θ, is designed into the lens 210 to favor certainoutcomes. For example, 3D lenses have a relatively narrow viewing angle,usually less than 30°. Animation lenses have a wider viewing angle,usually more than 40°. Lenses that fall between 30° and 40° are usuallygeneral-purpose lenses that offer good 3D and good animationcapabilities but may not be outstanding in either. These lenses would bean acceptable choice for an animated 3D image, for example. Narrowviewing angles have less room under each lenticule (a single lens) 210while wide angle lenses have more room under each lenticule 210. Theviewing angle, θ, is determined in part by the radius of the convex lens210 and gauge of the material in sheet 170.

The viewing angle, θ, and viewing distance, VD, are somewhat associatedwith one another. As FIG. 2 illustrates, in large format lenticularlenses 210,.the further away one is from the image, the more a viewermust move left or right in front of the image in order to get thecomplete effect. This is also true for smaller handheld lenticularimages where the viewer usually rocks the image back and forth insteadof left to right. The further the viewing distance, VD, and the widerthe viewing angle, θ, the slower the flip effect because of the need tomove more left to right or right to left. Obviously, for a narrowviewing angle, θ, one would need to move a shorter distance in order tocomplete the lenticular effect, i.e., to move from one field of vision(shown havening a width, Field_(w)) to another and to see change fromviewing one image or data set 120, 130, 140 to another image or data set120, 130, 140.

Viewing distance, VD, also affects lens 210 choice because of what canbe called the “billboard” principle. That is, as the viewing distance,VD, increases, the coarser the lens material one will want to use (i.e.,the lower frequency of the sheet 170). The reason for this is that toofine a lens sheet 170 for distant viewing will actually degrade theimage quality because the fine lens loses detail at greater distances.On the other hand, one may not want to use a coarse lens for a handheldimage, such as that viewable from a map, because the lens 210 willdegrade the quality by obscuring the details of the image 150 underneathby placing too coarse a lens 210 on top of the image 150. Put anotherway, billboard printing resolution is quite coarse when compared tooffset printing. This is because the viewing distances, VD, of both areradically different.

To achieve optimal visual results for the map 100, a certain amount ofresearch and development with prototyping may be useful. Embodiments ofthe map 100 have used lens sheets 170 with frequencies of 75, 90, and100 LPI configured (such as with an appropriate viewing angle, θ) toobtain a useful viewing distance, VD, for handheld items such as the map100, of about 9 to 15 inches. The data sets 120, 130, 140 may includeinformation in the form of text. Typically, smaller font sizes arepreferred to allow inclusion of more information in text form, and inone embodiment, text down to a 7.5 point font was included in the image150 formed from the layer data sets 120, 130, 140. A number of fonttypes can be used to achieve a desired look and clarity, such as sansserif, but preferably, the text is selected with a font type and sizethat allows the text to be read in all viewing directions through thelens sheet 170.

According to one embodiment of the map 100, only one of the data sets120, 130, 140 is visible through the lens sheet 170 at a time. To viewanother data set 120, 130, 140, the map 100 must be rotated to anotherviewing angle (or range of angles) or the viewer must move to adifferent field of vision while leaving the, map 100 stationary. Thisconcept is shown in FIG. 3 in a viewing process 300 is illustrated. Aviewer or user 304 is viewing a map or other object 310 formed accordingto the invention. At an initial position of the map 310, the viewer 304views (as shown by line 316) a first image 314 representing information(graphic and/or text) of a first layer data set (such as set 120). Whenthe map 310 is rotated (as shown by arrow 311) about a point 312 througha transition angle, θ₂, the viewer 304 views (as shown by arrow 324) asecond image 320 corresponding to the information (graphic and/or text)of a second layer data set (such as set 130). In other words, the firstimage 314 is visible between a first position and a position defined bythe transition angle, θ₂, at which time the image 314 phases or flipsinto the second image 320 or this can also be considered changing fromone viewing angle to an adjacent viewing angle as discussed withreference to FIG. 2. Likewise, in a 3-layer or 3-set embodiment, thesecond image 320 is visible to the viewer 304 until the map 310 isrotated 311 through another transition angle, θ₃, at which time theimage 320 phases into or flips to a third image 330 viewed (as shown byarrow 338) by the viewer 304 and corresponding to information in a thirdlayer data set (such as set 140).

In this embodiment 310, each data set is presented in a separate image314, 320, 330 but the data in each image 314, 320, 330 correspond to aset of information that is spatially related to each other and alignedwith an underlying or shared set of spatial alignment data (such as data110). This can best be understood with reference to FIGS. 4-6 that showa simple example of the type of graphical and text information that maybe included in the views 314, 320, 330 and corresponding layer datasets. As shown, the first data set of the map 310 includes street levelinformation in graphic and text form to provide the view or image 314.In this example, the map 310 utilizes a portion of an island (such asManhattan Island in New York City, N.Y., USA) for the spatial alignmentdata with the external border 410 providing a reference system orframework for achieving spatial alignment of each layer of data in eachview 314, 320, 330. As shown, the streets 420 are shown graphically andwith text labels and are spatially-aligned with the spatial alignmentdata (e.g., framework 410).

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary second image 320 in which the underlyingsecond layer data set includes neighborhood information 510 that isshown graphically with lined borders and with text labels and alsoincludes landmark information 520 shown graphically and with textlabels. In the second image 320, the second layer data set is againaligned spatially with the same framework 410 or spatial alignment dataas the information in the first image 314, which allows the viewer 304to rotate 311 the map 310 to quickly view the two images 314, 320 andreadily determine the spatial relationship of information in the twodata sets (e.g., which streets certain landmarks are near or on) withoutbeing overloaded with information when viewing either of the images 314,320. Additionally, a third view 320 can be viewed by rotating 311 themap 310 through another transition angle, 2, and the third view 320includes a third set of data (i.e., transportation data such as subwayroutes) that is spatially aligned with the same framework 410 defined bythe shared spatial alignment data. The image 320 includes graphicinformation of where transportation runs relative to the framework 410and textual information is used to show where transportation can beboarded. The transportation information of image 330 can be provided ina clear, concise fashion but can also be cross-referenced withinformation in the other views 314, 320 by rotating 311 the map 310through the transition angles, θ₃ and θ₂, which can also be thought ofas switching from one viewing angle to another for the lenticules in themap 310 (e.g., see, the discussion with relation to FIG. 2). In thismanner, a single map or object (such as map 100 of FIG. 1) can beutilized to present information from multiple sets of data in a mannerthat spatially relates the data to a single reference set of alignmentdata (such as selected coordinates, geographical boundaries such as acoastline, or a combination thereof).

The “layers” of the invention are meant to include any informationintended to be viewed by the viewer 304 when the map 310 is held at aparticular angle. “Layer” is therefore intended to include the displayof what might be deemed different types of information on a single layerfor example where the lenticular printing is combined with other meansof separating the information. For instance, a given “layer” containinginformation on streets can also contain information on a publictransportation system, if, for example, the public transportation systeminformation is in a different color than the street information. Forinstance, a map of “New York City in a Day” can contain a first layer(viewable from a first angle or range of angles) containing streetinformation in black and white and public transportation in differentcolors, a second layer (viewable from a second angle) displaying thestreets in black or fine line and “must see” sights, e.g., the Statue ofLiberty, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, etc., and a thirdlayer (viewable from a third angle) showing the streets in black or fineline and restaurants and cafes near the sights featured on the secondlayer.

With maps 310 of the invention, the viewer 304 can focus on a maplocation while viewing the map 310 from one angle, then “flip” the mapto a different angle while maintaining his point of focus, therebybringing into display new information on the geographic area. That is,it may be convenient to place, e.g., street information, within everylayer, but there is no requirement to do so. One of ordinary skill inthe art of lenticular printing and graphic design can therefore balancevarious interests, e.g., reducing costs by placing less information ineach layer versus increasing the overall usefulness of the map to theviewer by providing more information per layer, or more layers.

In some embodiments of the invention, ghosting (or viewing of data orimages from other layers) is intentionally allowed or enabled to presentinformation from one or more of the other “secondary” layer data setswhen viewing a “primary” layer data set. For example, in FIG. 1, thefirst layer data set 120 may include street information and the secondlayer data set 130 may include subway information and it may be usefulfor the “secondary” street information to bleed into or to ghost intothe “primary” subway information to assist a viewer in locating a subwayentrance relative to a particular street or street intersection. In somecases, a single one of the data sets (such as set 120) may be usedcontinuously as a “secondary” data set such that it ghosts through whenviewing all other data sets (such as sets 130 and 140). This may beuseful for providing an underlying base map in all views. In otherembodiments, the previous or adjacent layer that was viewed or portionsof that data set will be intentionally ghosted to the next viewed layerfor the entire viewing range or angle or for only the first portion ofthat viewing range at which point the “primary” data will be the onlydata shown in the image. This arrangement may be considered useful forallowing a transitional shift between two data sets (such as between astreet map to a neighborhood map) without requiring a user to flip backand forth to different views or images to retrieve previously viewedinformation. In past lenticular devices ghosting has been avoided toachieve higher quality.

To achieve ghosting, the color contrast is maximized such that colors orimages of later or primary layers do not (at least initially) block orcover colors or images of earlier or secondary layers. For example, if atext message or image (i.e., “DOG”) was to be ghosted, it may beprovided in a dark ink such as black with no dark image or colors usedin the overlapping area in layers that it is desirable to ghost the textmessage. In other cases, a lighter ink can be used or a dark, blockingimage is provided in the later or primary image to prevent or controlghosting of the image. Generally, strong color contrast is desired tocognitively reinforce the visual changes between layers or views, andwith this in mind, the combining or ghosting of distinct sets of datainto one layer preferably is done with an eye to what is visuallyeffective. For example, if one data layer includes information aboutsubway lines and another layer includes neighborhood data, these twolayers can be ghosted without too much difficulty with the subway linesshowing relatively clearly with the boundary lines and coloring of theneighborhood areas. However, similar data layers (such as bus lines andstreets or subways and bus lines) and complex or busy data layerstypically are better suited for exclusive views (such as shown in FIGS.4-6).

FIGS. 7-9 illustrate one embodiment of the invention in which ghostingis allowed between adjacent layers or data sets. In FIG. 7, a viewingprocess 700 is shown in which a viewer 704 views a map 710 (or othermulti-layered spatial data device) at several angles. At a firstposition or viewing angle, the viewer 704 view 716 the map 710 and seesa first image 714 corresponding to a first layer data set (such as dataset 120), and the first image 714 may be the same as image 314. As themap 710 is rotated 711 about point 712 the first image 714 is visible716 until the first transition angle, θ_(A), (i.e., until the secondviewing angle is reached) at which point the data of the first layershown in the first image 714 phases into a ghost image or secondaryimage that is visible 742 in the second image 740 along with the primaryimage corresponding to the second layer data set (such as set 130). Theghosted or combined image 740 is shown in FIG. 8 with a framework 810defined by shared spatial alignment data (the same framework 810 wouldbe used in the first image 714) and shows primary information, i.e., theneighborhoods 820 and landmarks 830, along with the secondary, ghostedinformation, i.e., the streets 840 which are shown lighter to indicateghosting from the first image 714. The combined or ghosted image 740 isuseful for viewing two sets of information from adjacent layers orimages. The ghosted image 740 is generally visible the entire time thatthe second layer data set is viewed or as shown, until a next transitionor viewing angle, θ_(B), is rotated 711 through at which point the image720 is visible 724 to the viewer containing only information from thesecond layer data set (such as data set 130 shown in FIG. 5).

The image 720 is then visible until the map 710 is rotated to a nextviewing or transition angle, θ_(C), at which point all or a portion ofthe information in image 720 (i.e., data in set 130 or second layer dataset) phases into a ghost or secondary image while the primary image ofimage or view 760 is based on information in the third layer data set(such as set 140 of FIG. 1). The image 760 visible 766 by the viewer 704is shown in FIG. 9 and includes a primary image including data from thethird layer data set, i.e., the subway graphical and text images 910,920 and a secondary or ghost image including data from the second layerdata set, i.e., the neighborhoods 930 and landmarks 940. The combinedimage (of the two adjacent images or data layers) remains visible theentire time the image from the third layer data set is visible or asshown, until a next transition or viewing angle, θ_(D), is rotated 711through with the map 710 at which point the viewer 704 views 738 a nextimage or view 730 based on the spatial alignment of only data in thethird data layer set (such as image 330 shown in FIG. 6). Theinformation that is intentionally ghosted between layers may be all or aportion of the information provided in each layer and may bleed throughto just the next or adjacent view or data layer or may bleed through toall or a number of later views or images. The data shown in the imagesin FIGS. 4-6, 8, and 9 is provided as useful examples but is notconsidered limiting as the content that is included in each layer dataset may vary significantly to practice the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates one exemplary fabrication process 1000 for making amap or other object according to the invention. The process 1000 beginsat 1010 typically with the planning of the map or object and continuesat 1015 with the identification of set of shared spatial alignment data.Typically, the identification step 1015 includes first determining amarket for the map or object (such as tourists of a particular country,state, region, or city or medical students or city planners orengineers) and then a definition of the level of detail to be provided,i.e., the spatial area to be included or covered by the map or object.For example, the spatial area to be covered may be a city and itsoutlying areas, and the set of spatial alignment data 1015 would then bea scale for presenting the data and coordinates of at least an outerboundary of the area such that the outer boundary can be used as areference system or framework for any included spatial data for the mapor object.

At 1020, the information to be provided on the map or object isdetermined and the identified information is divided into a number ofdata sets for presentation in layers or different views. At 1030, theprocess 1000 continues with the creation of an image representing thedata identified in step 1020 with information (graphic and text) of eachlayer data set being spatially aligned with the spatial alignment dataor framework selected in step 1015. The artwork is preferably createdand optimized to achieve a desired visual quality level and effects(i.e., to present the information in a visually pleasing anddifferentiating fashion). Also, at 1030, the images are preferablycreated to obtain a desired level of ghosting between the various datasets or layer images as discussed with reference to FIGS. 7-9. At 1035,a lens sheet is designed to support the viewing of the number of layersor images created in step 1030 and to provide useful fields of image byproperly selecting the pitch of the lens sheet and the viewing anglesand viewing distances of the lenticules. Also, at 1035, the lens sheetis fabricated according to standard practices.

At 1040, based on the lens sheet configuration (e.g., based on sheetfrequency or LPD, the multiple images created in step 1030 are combinedby interlacing alternating horizontal (or vertical depending on thesheet configuration) strips from each image. The resulting compoundimage can be said to be calibrated to the lens sheet that typically hasbetween 10 and 200 LPI (and, typically, is formed after verifyingcharacteristics of the produced sheet to account for manufacturingtolerances or variances). The interlaced image is then at 1050 printedon a substrate (such as a clear or opaque plastic sheet) or directlyonto the lens sheet and at 1060 the substrate is bonded onto the back ofthe lens sheet with the printed image abutting the flat side of the lenssheet. The printed compound image is carefully aligned with the lenssheet to insure proper visual effects (such as with the strips paralleland, typically, overlapping the elongate lens in the sheet). At 1070,additional fabrication steps may be performed such as those describedbelow with reference to FIGS. 11-13 or finishing processes such ascutting out individual maps or objects if multiple maps or objects areformed in sheeting and printing operations. At 1090, the process 1000 isended.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate a map 1100 that is formed by combiningseveral map sections 1120, 1124, 1128 that are framed with boundaries1110 and divided by folds 1130, 1134. Each map section 1120, 1124, 1128may include a lens sheet, a substrate, and a sandwiched compound orinterlaced image that provides a number of layers or sets of data thatis aligned with a shared spatial alignment data set. As shown, the folds1130, 1134 typically are formed of a thinner section of plastic (such asthe same or different plastic as used for the substrate). A map section1120 (and 1124, 1128) includes a lens sheet or lenticular material 1210bound to a substrate 1218 with an interlaced or compound ink or printedimage 1214 sandwiched therebetween. Typically, the map 1100 is formed byforming the lenticular lens layer containing a plurality of lens areas,printing a corresponding and aligned set of interlaced images on asubstrate, and then bonding the substrate to the lenticular lens layer.The map 1100 can then be folded or bent at the thinner folds 1130, 1134.

Alternatively, the map 1100 can be printed in sections, which are thenjoined together, e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,273,432, which isincorporated herein in its entirety by reference and describes a methodfor making a folding laminated map with an improved hinge and imageretention. The map is separated into two or more discrete partial panelsand printed on a single sheet of material. The space between panels isblank, and becomes the hinge. The map can also be printed in sections,and mounted on strips of flexible material that serves as a hinge, as isdone with folding boards for board games. Still another method of“folding” the map is the unusual folding system used by the “Falk-plan”,where the map is dissected into multiple strips, each joined to the nextin the middle, with the ends folded back concertina-fashion. The map isintended to stay folded, and the user/viewer flips the “pages” to theleft, right, up or down, to display the geographic region desired. Theadvantage to such a folding system is that one does not need to unfold alarge, potentially unwieldy map. The disadvantage is that only a smallportion of the map is available for viewing at any given time.

FIG. 13 illustrates yet another map or object 1300 formed according tothe invention. Form factor may be important for some embodiments and insome embodiments, such as object 1300, it may be desirable to presentinformation on both sides of a planar object 1300. For example, on oneside of a map 1300, a first series of data layers may be presented (suchas a of a first portion of a city) and on a second side of the map 1300,a second series of data layers may be presented (such as of a secondportion of a city). Alternatively, the first and second series of datalayers may include different or unrelated content (i.e., differentlayers of information but mapped to or spatially aligned with the sameset of spatial alignment data), which may be useful to provide manylayers of data (such as 6 layers or sets of data with 3 layers on eachside) about a particular spatial framework (such as a city) with a smallform factor. In other cases, the form factor may be as small as a creditcard or ID badge and include identification information spatiallyrelated on one side and unrelated information on the other side (such assafety information for the building in which the worker is locatedincluding evacuation routes).

As shown, the map or object 1300 includes a first or front lens sheet1310, a first or front interlaced or compound image 1320, a substrate1330 (and in some cases, the object 1300 may include two substratesbonded to each other), a second or back interlaced or compound image1330, and a second or back lens sheet 1350. Again, the lens sheets 1310,1350 may be identical or be configured differently and the images 1320,1340 may include layer data sets with similar content or with differentand even unrelated information.

Although the invention has been described and illustrated with a certaindegree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosurehas been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in thecombination and arrangement of parts can be resorted to by those skilledin the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention,as hereinafter claimed. For example, the use of the invention with maps,such as tourist maps, has been stressed in the above description forease of understanding and description. It will be understood that thepresentation of multiple sets of spatially-related data can be appliedto many other objects and to many other fields of industry and topics.For example, one envisioned embodiment involves the use of the inventionin the field of medicine and/or biology with the spatial alignment datadefining a reference system or framework for a living organism (such asthe human body) and a number of data sets or layers being defined andaligned with this framework (such as the organisms components orsystems). The invention would be very applicable to engineering orarchitectural drawings in which multiple systems (such as plumbing,structural, electrical, and the like) are present in a single spatialarea (i.e., a building). The number of specific applications are toonumerous to be listed in this description but are believed to beincluded within the breadth of the above description and followingclaims.

1. A map adapted for presenting multiple layers of spatially-relatedinformation and images to a viewer, comprising: a substrate; alenticular layer formed of a clear plastic and including a plurality ofparallel elongate lenses; and a printed image positioned between thesubstrate and the lenticular layer such that the lenses produce a firstimage at a first position of the map, a second image at a secondposition of the map, and a third image at a third position of the map,wherein the printed image comprises a series of interlaced stripscorresponding to the first, second, and third images and wherein thefirst, second, and third images comprise information from first, second,and third layer data sets that is all spatially aligned with a singleset of spatial alignment data defining a geographical boundary.
 2. Themap of claim 1, wherein the information in the first, second, and thirdlayer data sets are of a defined type and wherein the types ofinformation in each the data sets is different.
 3. The map of claim 2,wherein the types of information are selected from the group ofinformation types consisting of street information, publictransportation information, traffic flow information, parkinginformation, fuel source information, neighborhood information,restaurant information, cultural attraction information, outdooractivity information, landmark information, lodging information,shopping information, topographic information, emergency servicesinformation, utilities information, police precinct information, votingprecinct information, building structure information, building systeminformation, evaluation route information.
 4. The map of claim 2,wherein the types of information comprise street level information,landmark information, and transportation data.
 5. The map of claim 1,wherein folds are provided between a first and a second section of thelenticular layer and a corresponding first and second section of theprinted image, whereby the map can be folded upon itself at the foldsand the first and second sections of the printed image can be viewedindividually by a viewer.
 6. The map of claim 1, wherein the printedimage is configured such that the lenses produce at a fourth position atleast a portion of the first image concurrently with the second image.7. The map of claim 6, wherein a color contrast relative to the secondimage is selected for the at least a portion of the first image suchthat the second image does not block the at least a portion of the firstimage at the fourth position.
 8. The map of claim 1, wherein the printedimage is configured such that the lenses produce at least a portion ofthe first image concurrently with the third image in the third positionof the map.
 9. The map of claim 1, wherein each of the data setsincludes information that is temporally related to at least a portion ofat least one other of the data sets.
 10. The map of claim 1, furtherincluding an electronic display device configured to provide the printedimage and the substrate.
 11. The map of claim 1, wherein thegeographical boundary is included in the information of the first,second, and third layer data sets such that the geographical boundary isincluded in the first, second, and third images as a visible framework.12. The map of claim 1, wherein the geographical boundary comprisesboundaries defined by geo-coded data or geographic information systemsdata and wherein the first, second, and third layer data sets are eachaligned spatially to the boundaries.